Ghana’s World Cup Preview: Roster Grades

Wigan keeper Richard Kingson is one of the few notable players on the squad that stars in the EPL and although this has been a tough year for his Wigan side at times, he does have the opportunity to start in goal once again in the World Cup. Kingson is likely one of the best keepers from Africa and he was voted 2008 African Nations Cup Best Keeper.

Grade: B –

The Defense

Sunderland defender John Mensah and Fulham’s John Paintsil make up the stronger players of the unit and they are joined by German league players Hans Sarpei and Isaac Vorsah. Not a ton of star power back here, but the squad does have plenty of major league players including two important EPL players for their team. They will be a key to the club’s success.

Grade: B –

The Midfield

Chelsea man Michael Essien stars as the team’s MVP in the midfield and he needs to carry them to the second round with his game breaking ability. Sulley Muntari of Inter joins Essien in the starting lineup alongside Anthony Annan of Copenhagen, Kevin Prince Boateng of Portsmouth, and Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu of Udinese.

Grade: B +

The Forwards

Ghana doesn’t have any true star power up top when it comes to their name, but these three men will likely split time between the two available spots: Asamoah Gyan, Junior Agogo and Matthew Amoah. None of these guys play in a major league and I honestly do not know too much about them, but with a solid midfield it will likely mean these guys are used for big passes down the field and quick exchanges.

Grade: C +

Overall

Ghana proved last Cup that you don’t have to be a big name football nation with plenty of history to have success on the big stage. They beat many good opponents to earn their way to the second round and then they were thumped by a strong Brazilian team. Going into this Cup they are one of the few teams from Africa that is given some remote chance of winning the tournament. Michael Essien will be extremely critical for this success to happen.